Key facts
- Mexico City is hosting the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- The match features Mexico against South Africa at Estadio Azteca.
- Estadio Azteca is making history by hosting its third World Cup opening match.
- The city previously implemented remote work and school closures to manage traffic for opening events.
- The tournament is being co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
Mexico City is preparing to host the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the national team set to play South Africa at the historic Estadio Azteca on June 11. This marks the first time a stadium has hosted three World Cup opening games. The venue, which opened in 1966 and has a capacity of approximately 87,500, underwent significant renovations completed in early 2026 at a cost of around 3.6 billion pesos (€160 million).
Estadio Azteca holds a storied place in football history, having witnessed Pelé lift the trophy in 1970 and Diego Maradona's iconic goals in 1986. Fans are expressing palpable excitement, with events like a mass human wave attempting to break a Guinness World Record. The city's altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level presents a physical challenge for visiting teams.
Previously, Mexico City implemented measures such as suspending classes and mandating remote work for federal employees on June 11 to alleviate traffic congestion during World Cup kickoff events. The 2026 tournament is being co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada, and will feature an expanded format of 48 teams over 39 days.